Recent Blogs - 2021

posted by Steve Guyer on Wednesday, December 22, 2021 MidAmerican, Alliant and Black Hills Energy are warning that this winter our natural gas heating bills could be as much as 49% higher than last year. While analysists debate the reasoning, we explore what should really be the focus: resources we have at hand to keep electricity rates low.

posted by Ren Mattson on Monday, December 6, 2021 In our staff introduction series, we're sharing stories and backgrounds of the people working at IEC. In this intro blog, learn more about Ren Mattson, our new administrative assistant.

posted by Guest Blogger on Tuesday, November 30, 2021 Paul W. Johnson was one of Iowa's - and the nation's - great conservationists. In this guest blog post, former IEC Executive Director Ralph Rosenburg shares Paul's vision and how an ad hoc group of his family, friends, and colleagues has embarked on a project to remember and honor Paul and his legacy of public service, leadership, and conservation.

posted by Elizabeth Wagner on Monday, November 29, 2021 In our staff introduction series, we would like to share with you stories and backgrounds of the people behind the scenes of IEC. In this intro blog you will learn more about Elizabeth Wagner, our new part-time clean energy field organizer based in Iowa City.

posted by Guest Blogger on Tuesday, November 23, 2021 Iowa teen Lillian Hill staged her first climate protest at the Capitol last month. In a guest blog post, Lillian shares her inspiration, her concerns for her fellow Iowans, and her plans for the future.

posted by Guest Blogger on Monday, November 15, 2021 Energy poverty is multi-faceted. Having a limited economic measurement focus can miss people who are suffering. Dr. Destenie Nock, IEC's Bright Ideas 2021 keynote, shares observations in a guest blog post.

posted by Alicia Vasto on Tuesday, November 9, 2021 In 1987, the Iowa legislature passed the Iowa Groundwater Protection Act. IEC suggests it is time to create an Iowa Surface Water Protection Act as part of the efforts to advance the Nutrient Reduction Strategy.

posted by Guest Blogger on Friday, October 29, 2021 City Forester for the City of Des Moines, Shane McQuillan, shares his excitement for the tiny tree program and seeing non-profits work together to build the urban canopy in Des Moines.

posted by Michael Schmidt on Tuesday, October 26, 2021 Alliant Energy will build its first Iowa community solar project in Cedar Rapids. IEC Staff Attorney Michael Schmidt shares IEC's position on Alliant's new program and what it means for area residents.

posted by Guest Blogger on Monday, October 11, 2021 Guest blogger Rich Leopold, Director of Polk County Conservation, shares how past bond support delivered important water quality, flood protection, and outdoor recreation projects to residents in Central Iowa.